The Nourishment of Holy Attention
Consider this: In our fast-paced world of smartphones and bite-sized social media, it’s easy to skim through things without truly absorbing their meaning– we’re almost trained to.
If we’re being honest, this is especially true when it comes to reading the Bible, or devotions (just like this one). Yet, as Thomas Boston, an eighteenth-century Scottish pastor, reminds us, the best way to gain nourishment from Scripture is to read with what he deems “holy attention.”
Boston’s advice is profound: “Read with a holy attention, arising from the consideration of the majesty of God, and the reverence due to him. This must be done with attention, first, to the words; second, to the sense; and, third, to the divine authority of the Scripture, and the obligation it lays on the conscience for obedience.”
Reflect on this: the Bible is not just a book; it’s God’s revelation of Himself. When we read with holy attention, we recognize that we are encountering God. This awareness should lead us to approach Scripture with worshipful, teachable, and obedient hearts.
So what are some ways to take some solid eighteenth-century advice and bring it into today? Here are just a few ways. Remember, the key is to engage the mind and emotions differently to better facilitate a connection with the Spirit.
1) Listen. Put on an audio version of the bible, and imagine the scene with your eyes closed.
2) Doodle. Yes, draw an interesting abstract of what you’re reading– no art skills required.
3) Read aloud. It’s proven it engages a different part of your brain.
4) Journal. Write your thoughts about what you just read.
5) Scribe. Write scriptures that stand out word for word to rehearse them.
These are just a few ideas to try every now and again to practice holy attention.